Outdoor Recreation
Wide-Open Days, Endless Possibilities
From rugged peaks to winding rivers, Big Sky is built for outdoor adventure. Hike scenic trails to alpine lakes, ride lift-served mountain biking terrain, or spend a peaceful morning casting flies into blue-ribbon waters.
Here's just a taste of what summer has to offer:
- Fly fishing & guided float trips
Fish blue-ribbon rivers like the Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone - Hiking & trail running
Ousel Falls, Beehive Basin, and Lava Lake; ideal for all skill levels - Mountain biking
Lift-served trails at Big Sky Resort, plus cross-country single-track - Whitewater rafting & kayaking
Class II IV rapids along the Gallatin River canyon - Horseback riding
Trail rides through wildflower meadows and pine forests - Hot springs
Unwind at Bozeman Hot Springs, Norris, or Chico - Archery, camping, ziplining, golf, disc golf, rock climbing, paddle boarding, and more
Explore Yellowstone
The World's First National Park, Just Down the Road
Only an hour from The Wilson Hotel, Yellowstone National Park offers over 2 million acres of wild beauty, geothermal wonder, and iconic wildlife. From Old Faithful to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, this is a place where the landscapes are larger than life-and the memories last just as long.
Planning a day trip? Don't forget to check out our Yellowstone Road Ready package-it includes a daily market credit for road trip snacks and essentials.
Family-Friendly Adventures
Big Fun for All Ages
Whether it's your first trip to Big Sky or a return to a favorite summer tradition, there's no shortage of ways to explore together. With outdoor adventures, creative activities, and plenty of wide-open space to roam, Big Sky makes it easy for families to unplug and connect.
Top picks for families:
- Ousel Falls Trail (easy, scenic hike with waterfalls)
- BASE Community Center (indoor fun, climbing wall, creative classes)
- Adventure Mountain, playgrounds, and disc golf
- Family pond fishing trips
- Yellowstone day trips & wildlife watching
- Family-friendly rafting
Want to make it even easier? Check out our Last Best Place Family Discovery package-it includes snacks, special treats, and meal perks for both kids and grown-ups, making family travel feel just a little more effortless.
From morning adventures to relaxed evenings by the pool, Big Sky was made for making memories-one trail, float, and high-five at a time.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate the Season, Big Sky Style
Summer in Big Sky is more than mountain views-it's a season of community, creativity, and celebration. From weekly traditions to can't-miss festivals, the calendar is packed with reasons to gather, dance, taste, and explore.
Signature Events:
- Savor Big Sky (June 26-29, 2025) A multi-day food and wine festival with chef dinners, tastings, and mountaintop toasts
- Music in the Mountains (Jun-Sep) Free outdoor concerts every Thursday from June to September featuring nationally touring acts
- Big Sky PBR (July 17-19, 2025) One of the top bull-riding events in the country, right in Town Center
- Wildlands Music Festival (August 1-2, 2025) A two-day celebration of music, conservation, and Big Sky's natural beauty
- Big Sky Biggie (August 23, 2025) A premier endurance mountain bike race through rugged, scenic terrain
- Ultimate Summer Pool Parties at The Wilson The second Sunday of each month, featuring DJs, drinks, and themed fun:
- July 13, 2025 The Backyard Cookout
- August 10, 2025 A Tropic State of Mind
- September 15, 2025 Back-to-School Send-Off
Weekly & Recurring Favorites:
- Big Sky Farmers Market Every Wednesday in Town Center with local produce, food trucks, artists, and live music
- Live Music at Tips Up A rotation of local bands, DJs, and traveling acts in a laid-back downtown venue
- Lobby Music at The Wilson Unwind with cozy, casual performances right here in our mountain-inspired lounge
From laid-back jams to adrenaline-fueled competition, Big Sky's summer events are as dynamic and wide open as the landscape itself.
Rainy Day Activities
Even the Stormy Days Shine
It's often the chance a summer storm will roll through, but a little rain never dampens the Big Sky spirit. When the clouds roll in, there are still plenty of ways to explore, unwind, and make the most of your day-indoors and in style.
Top rainy day picks:
- Santosha Wellness Yoga, meditation, and massage in the heart of Town Center
- BASE Community Center Indoor climbing, kids' activities, fitness center, and classes
- Cowboy Coffee Co. Cozy up with a handcrafted espresso, tea, or cocoa
- Beehive Basin Brewery Laid-back (dog-friendly) taproom with rotating local brews
- Tips Up Indoor live music, pool tables, shuffleboard, and hearty comfort food
- Lobby Music at The Wilson Warm mountain atmosphere and evening acoustic sets
- The Waypoint Community café with coffee, cocktails, bites, and live music.
Whether you're relaxing, recharging, or just staying dry, Big Sky still delivers-even when the skies do too.
Your Big Sky Summer Basecamp
Stay Close to It All-Adventure, Comfort, and Local Flavor
At The Wilson Hotel, every trailhead, riverbend, and festival stage is just around the corner. Located in the heart of Big Sky's Town Center, our all-suite hotel puts you steps from local dining, live music, shops, and shuttles-plus just a short, scenic drive from Yellowstone National Park.
Whether you're setting out for a sunrise hike or returning from an afternoon on the river, The Wilson is where your Big Sky story begins-and ends in comfort. Unwind in our heated pool and hot tub, refuel at the Lobby Bar or Block 3 Kitchen & Bar, and relax in spacious suites designed for families, couples, and friends traveling together.
No matter the season, no matter your passion-your Montana summer starts at The Wilson.